Zidane arrives in style

Zinedine Zidane made a spectacular entry into the World Cup this morning when he arrived at the French base in southern Japan by helicopter.

In pouring rain, more than 100 Japanese fans and the remainder of the French squad witnessed his arrival from Kagoshima Airport following an overnight flight from Paris.

The Real Madrid midfield star had been given extended leave by French manager Roger Lemerre after his efforts in helping the club win the Champions League final against Bayer Leverkusen in Glasgow a week ago.

Zidane said: "I am very tired after the journey but I will be okay after I have some rest."

He was omitted from the squad for today's first serious workout for Lemerre's world champions in Ibuzuki. France beat Urawa Reds 5-1, with Bolton striker Youri Djorkaeff scoring a hat-trick.